Hi<BR><BR>I am planning a 3-4 day trip to Solo to see the Borobudur. Would you folks recommend that I stay in Jogya or Solo? Any particular hotels and sights to visit? Anybody been there during the Waisak Day celebration?<BR><BR>Thanks!!

I'd recommend that you stay in Jogya. That puts you closer to Borobudor, and there are better facilities and is more to do in Jogya. In addition to visiting Borobudor, you may want to take the full day to the Dieng Plateau (you go first to Borobudor, then on past it to Dieng). Do visit Prambanan, which is close to Jogya, but in the opposite direction from Borobudor. I saw the Ramayana ballet (actually, a short version) while I was there, in the open-air pavillion not far from Prambanan. As I remember, the best seats at that time were $5 each!<BR><BR>The crafts shopping in Jogya is even better than in Bali. In particular, look at the puppets, which are fabulous. I bought some that had come from the kraton in Jogya. There is also wonderful batik. I actually found the best batik in Solo.<BR><BR>Do visit the kratons in Jogya and in Solo. There are some interesing temples out beyond Solo to visit as well. <BR><BR>I recommend the Lonely Planet Indonesia Handbook as an excellent resource.

Hazel: Have not been to Solo, just to Jogya and absolutely loved it. Besides what Kathie wrote, visit the bird market and take a rikscha ride. Stayed at the Sheraton for two nights and liked it a lot. But it's a little outside the city center. Would not hesitate to explore that city for some more days.

I agree Yogya is better to use for a base than Solo. I've stayed at the following: Melia, which is a good moderate choice, very convenient to shopping and crafts. Hyatt, a bit out of town, but very nicely designed. Amanjiwo, very, very expensive, but if you can afford it, very, very wonderful.<BR>Before you go, I'd ask a few more questions about visiting Borobudur at Waisak. I understand that 10's of thousands of people go there on that day. It may be a bit overwhelming.<BR>Be sure to see the dancing at the Yogya kraton.

THanks everyone!!

Borobudur and Prambanan are indeed wonderful places to visit and learn about the ancient cultures of Java. Do be prepared to spend several hours at each place to be able to see and appreciate them. <BR><BR>On a different topic: Here's a caveat on using the becak (bicle-like taxis). Always agree first with the price before you get in, and be suspicious if the price is something like Rp 1,000 per hour (too cheap!!) The becak drivers are usually trying to get you to do shopping at the high-priced commission shops. Unfortunately, these are often the places that will sell you puppets that "came from the Kraton." Buyer beware in Yogja. <BR><BR>The nighttime Ramayana dance is indeed wonderful, you may also want to see Ratu Boko which is near Prambanan and make it a full day. Solo is about a 2 hour drive from Yogya (f your driver goes really fast) and does also have a Kraton but not as spectacular for the tourist.